Ingredient guide
Avobenzone in Sunscreen
What Avobenzone does in sunscreen and how it's regulated.
About Avobenzone
One of the few chemical UV filters that provides good UVA protection.
Why brands use it in sunscreen
Provides broad-spectrum UVA protection. Often combined with octocrylene or homosalate to improve photostability.
Regulatory status
- US FDA: Approved up to 3%. Not yet classified as GRASE by FDA pending additional safety data.
- European Union: Not on the EU prohibited list (some ingredients have concentration limits)
- Canada: Not restricted
Common alternatives
Other ingredients formulators use for a similar job in sunscreen:
zinc oxide (provides superior UVA protection)
titanium dioxide
iron oxides
Avobenzone in other product types
FAQ
What is Avobenzone?
One of the few chemical UV filters that provides good UVA protection.
Why is Avobenzone used in sunscreen?
Provides broad-spectrum UVA protection. Often combined with octocrylene or homosalate to improve photostability.
How is Avobenzone regulated?
Approved up to 3%. Not yet classified as GRASE by FDA pending additional safety data.
Does Numbrrrz lip balm contain Avobenzone?
No. Numbrrrz is organic coconut oil, organic beeswax, organic jojoba oil and vitamin E, plus organic essential oils or flavoring in the scented versions. That is a formulation choice, not a judgment about other products.
